Weherahena Temple
A spiritual marvel featuring a colossal Buddha statue and a unique underground tunnel adorned with vibrant Buddhist murals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, soft light
Weherahena Temple
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A spiritual marvel featuring a colossal Buddha statue and a unique underground tunnel adorned with vibrant Buddhist murals.
"A soul-stirring sanctuary with history carved underground and faith rising skyward."
🚶♀️ Walk Barefoot Comfortably
Wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off for temple entry. The grounds can be hot underfoot.
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. This is crucial for entering sacred areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Seated Buddha Statue
Entrance
An imposing 39-meter (128 ft) tall statue exuding profound calm and serenity.
The Tunnel Temple
Underground
A 600-foot-long tunnel adorned with vibrant murals depicting Buddha's life and Jataka tales.
Intricate Wall Paintings
Tunnel
Thousands of colorful murals that tell stories from Buddhist philosophy and folklore.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Respectful Attire is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk Barefoot Comfortably
Wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off for temple entry. The grounds can be hot underfoot.
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. This is crucial for entering sacred areas.
📸 Capture the Art
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful and respectful of the sacred space.
💰 Small Donations Welcome
Consider a small offering to help with the upkeep of this historic and spiritual site.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk Barefoot Comfortably
Wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off for temple entry. The grounds can be hot underfoot.
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. This is crucial for entering sacred areas.
📸 Capture the Art
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful and respectful of the sacred space.
💰 Small Donations Welcome
Consider a small offering to help with the upkeep of this historic and spiritual site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Weherahena Temple is celebrated for its awe-inspiring giant Buddha statue and the unique, art-filled underground tunnel depicting Buddhist narratives. Visitors praise its spiritual atmosphere and the intricate murals, though some note concerns about its current upkeep and the need for donations to preserve its magnificence.
"Although the temple does not have much historical significance, the Weherahena Poorwarama Maha Viharaya in Matara is popular temple drawing both buddhist pilgrims and tourists alike, due to two unique architectural marvels, namely, a giant statue of the Buddha seated in samadhi position and the temple itself is said be the largest and the first of its kind tunnel temple in the world.
This imposing Buddha statue is an imposing 39 meters (128 feet) tall, making it the third tallest Buddha statue in Sri Lanka. The statue exudes a profound sense of calm and serenity.
The story of the temple is quite interesting. It starts in the early part of the 20th century. The Most Rev. Parawahera Rewatha Thero who played a pivotal role in the construction of the temple which began in 1939, was sent to Weherahena as a punishment by his teacher. The area was then just an half acre mound of dense jungle with a Bodhi tree.
It is said that the Thero came only with an blanket, mattress and the bowl. He managed to get the villagers organised and built himself a small clay hut for himself. He soon came up with a grand idea of building the largest Buddha statue in the world, and a remarkable 600-foot-long tunnel adorned with intricate murals depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha and Jataka tales. He had the blessings and support of Anagarika Dharmapala who lead the revival of Buddhism ravaged by the colonialists in the country.
Ideal times for a visit are early morning or at sunset as you will have to walk a fair distance across concrete, barefoot."
Adrian Corera
"⭐ Weherahena Rajamaha Viharaya – Matara
This temple is one of Matara’s most iconic landmarks, famous for its giant seated Buddha statue and the long underground tunnel filled with colorful Buddhist paintings. It’s a peaceful and spiritual place with deep cultural value.
However, during my recent visit, I noticed that some of the wall paintings inside the tunnel have faded or peeled off, and parts of the Buddha statue’s roof also seem to need repair. It would be wonderful to see this beautiful place restored and maintained better, as it truly deserves more care.
Still, the temple has a calm atmosphere and is worth visiting for its history and unique design. A meaningful stop for anyone exploring the south. 🙏✨"
Tharindu
"A very peaceful and spiritual place in Matara. The Weherahena Rajamaha Viharaya is famous for its giant Buddha statue and underground paintings that tell the life story of Lord Buddha. The environment is calm and perfect for meditation and worship."
Ashen Jayasooriya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Weherahena Temple is located near Matara. You can hire a tuk-tuk or a taxi from Matara town. The journey is relatively short, usually around 15-20 minutes. Some travelers mention it's a bit of a walk once you arrive, so factor that in.
While direct public transport might be limited, you can take a bus towards Kataragama or Tissamaharama from Matara and ask the driver to drop you off near the temple. From there, it might be a short walk or a quick tuk-tuk ride.
If you're driving, follow signs towards the temple. There is usually parking available, though it can get busy during peak times. The temple is well-known, so navigation apps should guide you easily.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no official entrance fee mentioned, but donations are highly encouraged to support the temple's maintenance and preservation. Visitors often contribute a small amount.
The temple is generally open from early morning until late evening. Visiting during cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late afternoon, is recommended by visitors for a more comfortable experience.
No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary as there isn't a formal ticketing system. You can visit anytime during opening hours. Donations are accepted on-site.
The main restriction is the dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered. You also need to remove footwear before entering any shrine or the tunnel.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the massive 39-meter tall seated Buddha statue and the unique underground tunnel temple filled with vibrant murals depicting Buddhist stories and the life of Buddha.
Most visitors spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the temple grounds, the giant Buddha statue, and the tunnel. You might spend longer if you wish to meditate or absorb the atmosphere.
Yes, photography is generally permitted in most areas. The giant Buddha statue and the colorful murals in the tunnel offer great photo opportunities. However, always be respectful of the sacred nature of the site.
Absolutely. The temple grounds are described as peaceful and calm, making it an ideal spot for meditation and quiet reflection. Many visitors find the atmosphere conducive to spiritual practice.
You must wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Comfortable shoes that are easy to remove are also recommended, as you'll need to take them off before entering certain areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The giant Buddha statue from various angles, the entrance to the tunnel, and the detailed murals inside the tunnel are prime photography spots. The serene temple grounds also offer peaceful shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the tunnel. However, it's important to be mindful of other visitors and the sacred nature of the space. Avoid using flash if it might disturb others or damage the artwork over time.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the Buddha statue and the tunnel. For the murals, a lens that performs well in low light is beneficial. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate for most visitors.
There are no specific mentions of drone restrictions, but it's always advisable to check local regulations and be respectful of the religious site. Drones are generally not permitted in most religious or cultural heritage sites without prior permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to dress children in modest clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Ensure they wear shoes that are easy to remove, as they'll need to take them off before entering the tunnel and shrines. The cooler temperatures inside the tunnel can also be a welcome relief on a hot day. While the historical and spiritual significance might be complex, the visual elements make it an interesting stop for all ages.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers & Pilgrims
The underground tunnel, with its extensive murals detailing the Buddha's life and teachings, serves as a powerful visual aid for contemplation. Many visitors find the atmosphere deeply moving and conducive to spiritual practice. It's a place to connect with Buddhist heritage and experience a unique form of sacred art.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Vision Behind Weherahena
Construction began around 1929, with the support of local villagers and influential figures like Anagarika Dharmapala, who championed the revival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The tunnel, designed to be the world's first large-scale subterranean Buddhist shrine, was adorned with thousands of murals depicting the Jataka tales and scenes from the Buddha's life. The monumental seated Buddha statue, completed in the 1970s, stands as a testament to the enduring faith and dedication that shaped this sacred site.
Despite facing challenges, including recent concerns about its condition due to nearby development, Weherahena remains a powerful symbol of devotion and architectural innovation. It represents a unique blend of tradition and creativity, offering visitors a glimpse into a rich spiritual heritage carved both underground and skyward.
Exploring the Underground Marvels
Each mural is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted to convey spiritual wisdom and moral lessons. The sheer scale and detail of the artwork are breathtaking, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and immerse themselves in the stories. The atmosphere within the tunnel is one of quiet contemplation, a stark contrast to the bustling world outside. It's a journey through sacred history, brought to life through art.
Navigating the tunnel requires comfortable footwear as you'll be walking barefoot. The experience is often described as stepping into another realm, a spiritual sanctuary where art and devotion intertwine. It's a must-see for anyone interested in Buddhist art, history, or seeking a unique spiritual experience.
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